Algeria vs Guatemala: Team News, Predicted Lineups & International Friendly Preview

Algeria and Guatemala will meet in an international friendly at the Stade Luigi Ferraris in Genoa, Italy, on Friday as both nations continue their preparations. For Algeria, this match is part of their build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a subsequent friendly against Uruguay also scheduled. Guatemala views this as their final outing for the current international break, aiming to finish on a positive note.

The friendly provides a valuable opportunity for both teams to experiment with tactics and assess player form ahead of their respective future commitments. Algeria, having already secured qualification for the World Cup, will be looking to refine their squad and build momentum. Guatemala, despite missing out on World Cup qualification, will seek to gain experience and improve their performance against higher-ranked opposition.

Algeria’s Road to the World Cup

Algeria’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was dominant, topping CAF Group G with 25 points from 10 matches – a seven-point lead over both Uganda and Mozambique. The qualification campaign saw the Desert Warriors secure eight wins and a draw, with their only defeat a narrow 1-0 loss to Guinea. This performance underscored their consistency and established them as a strong contender in African football.

Prior to their World Cup qualifying success, Algeria impressed in the Africa Cup of Nations, winning all three group stage matches. However, their journey was cut short in the knockout phase with a 2-0 defeat to Nigeria. Despite this setback, Algeria’s attacking prowess has been evident, with Vladimir Petkovic’s side opening the scoring in seven of their last eight matches, demonstrating their ability to take the initiative in games.

© Imago

Guatemala’s Qualifying Disappointment

In contrast to Algeria’s success, Guatemala’s World Cup qualifying campaign proved challenging. They finished second behind Jamaica in the second round but ultimately ended third in the final stage, four points behind Panama. The Mayans experienced a slow start, suffering defeats to El Salvador, Panama, and Suriname. While they rallied with wins over El Salvador and Suriname, a 3-2 loss to Panama sealed their fate.

Despite failing to qualify, Guatemala will aim to use this friendly as an opportunity to assess their squad and build towards future competitions. The match against Algeria provides a test against a higher-ranked opponent and a chance to gain valuable international experience.

Team Updates and Potential Lineups

Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic has named a 27-man squad for these World Cup warm-up matches, including six new players and two additional goalkeepers. Around 11 players from the previous Africa Cup of Nations squad have been omitted for various reasons. Key midfielder Ismael Bennacer is unavailable due to a knee injury, alongside Ilan Kebbal (thigh), Jaouen Hadjam (ankle), and Samir Sophian Chergui (thigh).

Guatemala’s Luis Fernando Tena has reported no major injury concerns, while defender Aaron Herrera is confirmed to be absent due to a leg injury. Kenderson Navarro, who impressed in a recent 1-0 defeat to Canada, is likely to retain his place in the starting lineup.

Algeria possible starting lineup: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Nouri; Boudaoui, Zerrouki; Mahrez, Maza, Chaibi; Amoura

Guatemala possible starting lineup: Navarro; Morales, Samayoa, Pinto, Ardon; Munoz, Franco, Castellanos; Avila Jr, Lom, Santis

Looking Ahead

Algeria will be looking to build momentum and fine-tune their preparations as they approach the 2026 World Cup. This friendly against Guatemala, and their subsequent match against Uruguay, will be crucial in assessing player form and solidifying their tactical approach. For Guatemala, the focus will be on gaining experience and improving their performance against a strong opponent. The outcome of this match will provide valuable insights into both teams’ progress as they look towards their future international commitments.

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